Top Gear Live is coming to South Africa. The exhibition will be held at Grand West Arena at Grand West Casino in Cape Town between the 28th of January and the 30th of January 2010 and at the Coca-Cola Dome in Johannesburg between the 4th of February and 7th of February 2010. Famed for their legendary globe-trotting antics, the 3 Top Gear presenters (Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May) took inspiration from some of the world’s most famous explorers including Livingstone, Shackleton, Scott, Sir Edmund Hillary.
The Top Gear Live crew have been working hard on finding new ideas and welding things together that don’t match. The process involved a lot of nodding. The result is a completely new show featuring the world’s fastest cars pushed to their mechanical limits, acrobats laying their lives on the line and some middle aged men falling over and catching fire a bit. Fans can expect an edge-of-their-seats experience with flaming rally cars, extreme underground street racers and cars which change colour in the blink of an eye. Other sequences will feature the infamous Stig who will be leading our troop of international stunt drivers via a mix of hand gestures, sonic pulses and Morse code, showing audiences the ultimate in precision driving.

This definately sounds like an interesting exhibition / show. I’m sure that fans of the popular BBC TV series will not be disappointed. South African fans can acquire tickets from Computicket. More information can be obtained on the the show’s official website.

The Bentley Continental Supersports 2010 is a 2 Door 2 Seater Coupe. The All Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicle has a front four-link double wishbone, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension and anti-roll bar and a rear trapezoidal multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension and anti-roll bar. The car has a top speed of 204 mph (329 km/h). The Bentley Continental Supersports 2010 takes only 3.7 seconds to reach 60 mph and 8.9 seconds to reach 100 mph. What’s even more impressive is that it accelerates from 50-70 mph in just 2.1 seconds. The Bentley Continental Supersports is the fastest and most powerful Bentley ever. The secret of the Bentley Continental Supersports 2010’s speed is more power, of course, so the turbo boost has been turned up for this long-stroke, 48-valve 5,998cc W12 engine, and the result is a total of 621 hp at 6,000 rpm and 590 pound-feet between 1,700 and 5,600 rpm torque. The base prices for the Bentley Continental Supersports 2010 has not been released yet.

Mario Andretti: He was born in 1940 in Italy. Mario Andretti has won races in Formula One, Indycar, World Sportscar Championship and NASCAR (the 2nd race car driver in history to do so). He’s the only person to be named driver of the decade in 3 different decades (1964, 1978 and 1984). Mario Andretti competed for the Lotus, March, Ferrari, Parnelli, Alfa Romeo & Williams teams when he was active in Formula One racing (from 1968 – 1972 and 1974 – 1982).

Here are a few quotes from him:

“Desire is the key to motivation, but it’s determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal – a commitment to excellence – that will enable you to attain the success you seek.”

“Do it no matter what. If you believe in it, it is something very honorable. If somebody around you or your family does not understand it, then that’s their problem. But if you do have a passion, an honest passion, just do it.”

“Everything comes to those who wait… except a cat.”

“If everything seems under control, you’re just not going fast enough.”

“I don’t think I could have called my career complete without racing in IROC. You always compete against the best of the best.”

Damon Hill: A famous race car driver, born in the United Kingdom in 1960. He was Michael Schumacher’s main rival when he was active in Formula One racing between 1992 and 1999. Damon Hill won the Formula One championship in 1996. He’s the only Formula One driver in history to repeat his father’s Formula One championship success. Damon Hill’s father, Graham Hill, won the Formula One title in 1962 and 1968. During his career Damon Hill won 22 Formula One Grand Prix races and drove for the Brabham, Williams, Arrows and Jordan teams.

Here are a few quotes from Damon Hill:

“I think at times I appear to be miserable when I am not… I might be having quite a good thought at that moment, but it seems I look miserable. I am not.”

“If I am pushed I will push back, that is the way I am. I am very British. We don’t like to be pushed around. When the chips are down we might have to step into grey areas.”

“If I am treated fairly, I like to do things in a fair manner. That is the way I have been all my career. I haven’t tried to do things in an underhanded way.”

“The British tend to shy away from the spotlight. We don’t like being singled out in any way, and I think that is something which is important for me to learn to do.”

“The sport would not survive today if drivers were being killed at the rate they were in the 1960s and ’70s. It would have been taken off the air. It is beamed into people’s living rooms on Sunday afternoons, with children watching.”

“There are a lot of factors in the life of an F1 driver which can combine to make you believe that you are somehow above normality. I think that is a mistake to start believing that. But, at the same time, it is important to be confident.”

“You should never feel comfortable. There is something wrong if you are. You should always feel under threat, on the edge of your seat and pushing yourself. Win one and you want to win more. It’s never-ending.”

Related Links:
Damon Hill – Formula One Hall of Fame
Mario Andretti – Grand Prix Hall of Fame

On the 29th of April 1899 the La Jamais Contente (translated as “The Never Satisfied”) became the first car to go faster than 100 km/h. Camille Jenatzy (from Belgium) drove the car. The car reached a top speed of 105 km/h, breaking the land speed record. The La Jamais Contente broke the previous record (92 km/h) which was held by Count Gaston de Chasseloup-Laubat. The La Jamais Contente was an electric vehicle with a light alloy torpedo shaped bodywork. The high position of the driver and the exposed chassis underneath spoiled much of the aerodynamics of the car. It’s hard to believe that we take driving over 100 km/h for granted nowadays in South Africa. Back then it was actually an achievement.

The Japanese Auto Manufacturer will introduce this concept vehicle at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show later this month. The Toyota FT-86 has been nicknamed the “Toyobaru” because Toyota is actually developing this vehicle in conjunction with Subaru. This rear wheel drive sports car is rumored to be close to going to production. The Toyota FT-86 concept car design apparently draws from the dramatic Toyota FT-HS hybrid sports concept which was shown at the 2007 Detroit Motor Show. The Toyota FT-86 refers to the Toyota Corolla AE-86 (a rear-drive coupe that became Japan’s rally car in the 1980s). The Toyota FT-86 is fitted with a 2.0-litre boxer engine from the Subaru Impreza and a 6 speed gearbox. It’s highly unlikely that we’ll see this vehicle on the Toyota production line in South Africa soon.

The Japanese Auto Manufacturer Honda has unveiled the Honda EV-N Concept ahead of the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show (later this month). This retro-styled electric car looks like something out of the 1960s, in my opinion. Honda are keeping some secrets at this stage. They have not released details about the motor and battery that will be fitted in this vehicle. A U3-X Segway-like unicycle is smartly strapped to the passenger door. One could easily mistake this for a hardcore speaker system. The Honda EV-N Concept will be part of the HELLO display for Honda at the 2009 Tokyo Motor show. This exhibit will showcase Honda products that could be part of a low-carbon society of the distant future. The Honda EV-N Concept is also fitted with a solar roof panel. This 4 seater car pays homage to the Honda N360s and N600s of the 1960s and 1970s. I will probably not be buying a car like this in the nearby future. There is no clarity if this car will be introduced in South Africa and there is no indication whether Honda will be making this part of their production line-up.

Hyundai has withdrawn from the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show. The American Detroit manufacturers also withdrew earlier in the year which will make this years show a bit smaller than last year’s show. The 40th Tokyo Motor Show in 2007 had 1,425,800 visitors and 246 Exhibitors displayed their products.

The Following Cars are expected to be displayed at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show:

• Honda CR-Z pre-production concept
• Honda EV-N concept
• Honda Skydeck concept
• Lexus LF-A
• Mazda Kiyora Concept
• Nissan GT-R
• Nissan R.D:B.X Concept
• Mitsubishi i MiEV Cargo
• Subaru Hybrid Tourer concept
• Subaru Exiga 2.0T STI
• Subaru Impreza WRX STI Carbon
• Suzuki Swift Plug-in Hybrid concept

It’s sad that South Africa does not have a motoring show / exhibition of this magnitude. A show like this attracts thousands of visitors and could mean a nice boost to the local economy. In my opinion, it’s high time for South Africa gets its own motor show.

Honda has provided a sneak preview to the Honda CR-Z sports car. This alternate fuel concept car will make its debut as a prototype at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show in Japan. The car’s styling is inspired by the original Honda CRX. The Honda CR-Z concept was first introduced in 2007, the concept’s lines have not changed much since then. The car is expected to go on sale in Japan by February / March 2010. The Honda CR-Z was introduced with a 6-speed manual gearbox which is likely to make it to the final production version. It’s expected that the Honda CR-Z will reach 0 – 100 km/h in about 9 seconds. According to the Japanese Auto Maker, the Honda CR-Z is 95% production ready. The final production version of the Honda CR-Z will be introduced at the Detroit Auto Show in early 2010. It’s highly unlikely for this car to be released in South Africa, but who knows? Honda is quite a popular brand in South Africa, so they might release it over here.

Land Rover first introduced the Land Rover LRX as a concept vehicle in 2008 at the Detroit Auto Show (almost 2 years ago). At the time of the concept’s debut it was unsure whether Land Rover would actually make the Land Rover LRX part of it’s range of production models. Land Rover have recently confirmed that this vehicle will be going into production as a 2011 model. It has been described as “the smallest, lightest and most efficient vehicle the company has ever produced”. It’s still remains to be seen whether Land Rover will introduce a hybrid version of the Land Rover LRX. 4×4 vehicles have become highly criticized by environmental groups amid concerns about global warming in recent times. It’s expected that Land Rover will release the LRX as a 2 door crossover vehicle. Not much has been said about the engine and transmission that will be fitted in this vehicle. It appears as if the Land Rover LRX is based on the Land Rover Freelander’s underneath. Land Rover are not saying much about the Land Rover LRX Production version at the moment. It’s not clear if this vehicle will be released in South Africa (my home country).

The Ferrari 458 Italia will be capable of doing 0 – 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds. According to Ferrari the car is “a completely new car from every point of view: engine, design, aerodynamics, handling, instrumentation and ergonomics, just to name a few”. The Ferrari 458 Italia is just over 4.5 meters long and just over 1.9 meters wide. The car will be able to reach a top speed of +/- 325 km/h (202 mph). Despite the engine being bigger than the ones used in the Ferrari 458 Italia’s predecessors, the emissions are reduced and the car is quite economical. The car is capable of travelling 100 km on 13.7 liters of fuel. This sports car promises to be one of the most memorable Ferrari vehicles, in my opinion. Because of the price tag on this vehicle, it’s highly unlikely that we will see many of these cars on the roads of South Africa. It will probably cost more than R2 million here if it’s ever released here.

Alfa Romeo’s Quadrifoglio Verde symbol has always been associated with victory, heritage and racing. Nowadays the symbol represents a new kind of sportiness which combines maximum driving pleasure with improved environmental qualities. The Alfa Romeo Mito Quadrifoglio Verde has high-quality finishes, lots of attention to detail and various other features. The car is fitted with 17″ satin titanium-finished wheels. The headlight frames and the wing mirrors are the same colour. The dark finish of the headlight parabolas is achieved by the usage of brand new metal sublimation technology. The Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio Verde certainly looks stylish. I wouldn’t be surprised if someone out there was aching to get behind the wheel of this car. It’s uncertain whether the Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio Verde will be released in South Africa. Alfa Romeo has built up quiite a reputation in South Africa, but that might not be enough to get this vehicle here.

This vehicle is 10cm shorter than the current BMW X3 model. Its expected that the next generation of the BMW X3 will be larger. The BMW X1 is a compact 5 seater SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle). It’s expected that the BMW X1 will be competing against the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, and Volkswagen Tiguan in the market. All models will be fitted with BMW’s Efficient Dynamics technology (which helps to improve fuel economy and emission reductions), which includes brake energy regeneration, engine stop-start technology and a gearshift point indicator. In my opinion it seems that this German Auto Manufacturer never seems to disappoint, probably one of the reasons why the company has been around since 1916. At this stage it’s unsure whether the BMW X1 will be released in South Africa, but if you take BMW presence in South Africa into account, they probably will release the vehicle here in 2010 or 2011.

Here are some introductions at this years Frankfurt Motor Show:

• Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde
• Alfa Romeo 159
• Audi A5 Sportback
• Audi R8 Spyder
• BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo
• BMW 740D
• BMW X1
• BMW Active Hybrid X6
• BMW Active Hybrid 7
• Dodge Caliber
• Ferrari 458 Italia
• Fiat 500 Abarth
• Fiat Punto Evo
• Fiat Punto SuperSport
• Fiat Qubo Treking
• Fiat Sedici
• Ford C-Max
• Ford Grand C-Max
• Honda CR-V
• Hyundai i10 Electric
• Hyundai i30
• Hyundai ix35
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Jaguar XJ
• Kia cee’d facelift
• Kia Venga
• Kia Sorento
• Kia Forte LPI Hybrid
• Kia cee’d Hybrid
• Kia Sorento Hybrid
• Kia Venga MPV
• Lamborghini Reventón Roadster
• Lexus IS-F sport package
• Lotus Elise Club Racer
• Lotus Evora Club Racer
• Maserati GranCabrio
• Mazda CX-7
• Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
• Mercedes-Benz S500 plug-in hybrid
• Mercedes-Benz E-class estate
• Mercedes-Benz BlueZero E-cell
• Mercedes-Benz B-class F-cell
• Opel Astra
• Peugeot RCZ
• Peugeot 5008
• Peugeot BB1
• Peugeot iOn
• Porsche 911 Sport Classic
• Porsche 911 Turbo
• Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
• Porsche 911 GT3 RS
• Porsche Panamera
• Range Rover Sport
• Rolls-Royce Ghost
• Saab 9-5
• Seat Leon Cupra R
• Skoda Sperb Estate
• Subaru Legacy
• Subaru Outback
• Toyota Land Cruiser
• Vauxhall Insignia Ecoflex St
• Volkswagen California
• Volkswagen Caravelle
• Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion
• Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion
• Volkswagen Polo 3 door
• Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion
• Volkswagen Polo GTI
• Volkswagen Golf R
• Volkswagen Transporter
• Volvo C30
• Volvo C70
• Volvo XC60 R-Design

You are probably wondering how this exhibition started in the first place? The Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung (IAA) or International Motor Show is generally referred to as the Frankfurt Motor Show. This event is the world’s largest motor show and is organized by the Association of the German Automotive Industry (VDA). The Frankfurt Motor Show is scheduled by the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles, which considers it to be a major international auto show. The first ever IAA was held at the Hotel Bristol in Berlin in 1897. Between 1897 and 1911 it became a fixed event in Germany. At least one was held almost every year, usually in Berlin. In 1905, 1906 and 1907 there were 2 IAA’s held. In 1921 the first IAA was held in Berlin since World War I. It was the 14th time that the IAA was held. At that stage, 67 automobile manufacturers were showing off 90 motor car and 49 Heavy Goods Vehicle models. In 1931, the IAA was held again for the 22nd time, despite after-effects of the global recession. 295,000 visitors were recorded for the show. Front-wheel drive vehicles were on display for the first time. In 1939, the last IAA was held in Berlin before the outbreak of World War II. This was the 29th IAA in history and a record breaking 825,000 visitors attented the exhibition. Volkswagen was presented for the first time at this show. The “strength through joy motor car” from the 1939 show later became known of as the “Beetle”. Between 1947 and 1949 German automobile and accessories manufacturers took part in the export trade fair in Hanover. The automobile industry’s hall attracted a lot of attention from the public. In April 1951 an automobile exhibition was held on the trade fair site in Frankfurt for the first time ever. This event attracted 570,000 visitors. In Sept 1951 a 2nd event was held in Berlin, attracting 290,000 visitors. This was the 35th time that an IAA was held. The German Automobile industry said goodbye to the old exhibition spot in Berlin and relocated permanently to Frankfurt. From now on the show would be held annually. In 1961, the 40th IAA in Frankfurt was visited by 950,000 people, breaking records from previous years. In 1965 a Japanese company presented its motor cars at an IAA for the first time. In 1989, an IAA was held featuring both cars and commercial vehicles. This confirmed that the exhibition site in Frankfurt was now too small for this major event. Almost 2,000 exhibitors squeezed onto an exhibition site measuring 252,000 square metres. More than 1.2 million visitors attended the event. The VDA decided to hold 2 IAAs from now on. From 1991, the Frankfurt Motor Show was split into 2 shows. In odd-numbered years the IAA Passenger Cars exhibition was to held in Frankfurt. On even-numbered years the IAA Commercial Vehicles exhibition would be held in Hanover. The first IAA Passenger Cars exhibition in 1991 was huge success. 1,271 exhibitors from 43 countries displayed their new products and innovations on an exhibition site of +/- 200,000 square metres. More than 935,000 visitors attended that year’s IAA. In 1992 the first IAA Commercial Vehicles Exhibition hosted 1,284 exhibitors from 29 countries on a 252,000 square metre exhibition site. 287,000 people visited this exhibition, 66 percent of them were trade visitors. The decision to split the Frankfurt Motor Show into 2 seperate events was a success.

Related Link:
IAA (Frankfurt Motor Show) – Official Website

The Audi R8 Spyder is fitted with a electro-hydraulically controlled soft cloth top which opens and closes in 19 seconds to reduce the car’s weight. The soft cloth top is available in 3 different colours and is even capable of opening and closing whilst the car is travelling at 50 km/h. The Audi R8 can be optionally fitted with the first ever seatbelt microphone, which can serve as the vehicle’s hands-free unit. For this option, 3 small microphones are fitted into both seatbelts. At least 1 microphone is ideally positioned relative to the speaker system of the car, when the seat belt is on. A 4th microphone is fitted into the windshield frame. When the hands-free unit is active, at least 2 microphones combine with a noise reduction system to ensure clear conversations even if the driver is whistling down at top speeds down the highway with the Audi R8 Spyder’s top down. Audi plans to release the Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI Quattro in early 2010. At this stage it’s unclear whether this car will be released in South Africa. Only time will tell if we’ll see this glorious vehicle here. There will be hefty price tag for this car though, so brace yourselves.

Related Links:
Audi – Official Website

The Citroën DS3 will be making its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany this week. This supermini car is the production version of the Citroën DS inside concept. The French Auto Manufacturer is hoping that the Citroën DS3 will be a competitor for Mini and Fiat. The car is based on the next Citroën C3 model. The Citroën DS3’s body features a fully glazed rear, with conventional C-pillars replaced by the rear window. The car is 3.95m long and 1.71 m wide, almost the same size as the Ford Fiesta. Buyers will have options to customize the interior & exterior of the Citroën DS3. 4 different colour schemes will be available for the roof. Graphics will also be available. Buyers will be able to choose between body coloured or chrome door mirrors. Coloured wheel centres will also be available in a variety of colours. The dashboard will be available in 6 different finishes. 5 different gear lever trims will also be available. The Citroën DS3 key will feature a small disc painted in the same colour as the car’s body. Citroën is planning to release the DS3 with 5 different engine choices, 2 diesel and 3 petrol. All models will come with either 5 or 6 spd manual transmissions. The Citroën DS3 will use MacPherson strut front suspensions and torsion beam rears. The car will have a 285 litre boot. Citroën is claiming that the DS3 will offer “5 real seats”. Citroën is also planning to release the DS4 in 2001 and the DS5 MPV in 2012. The Citroën DS3 is marked for European release in March 2010. At this stage it’s not clear if this car will be released in South Africa next year as well. Who knows? The car is bound to become very popular in Europe. Only time will tell.

Related Links:
Citroën – Official Website

American Auto Manufacturer, General Motors, is selling a 55 percent stake in in Opel-Vauxhall brand. The Canadian parts manufacturer, Magna is named as the buyer. The deal secures German jobs, but leaves workers in other countries vulnerable. A Russian bank and the German government are providing the funds for the deal. Angela Merkel, the German Chancellor has praised the deal because it protects 25,000 Opel workers in Germany. The 5,500 Vauxhall workers in the UK face a less certain future. The new owners have indicated that they would try and keep the 2 plants in the UK open. General Motors is selling this part of their business off to help reduce debt in an attempt to ease their financial troubles. Previously there had been speculation about General Motors liquidating Opel-Vauxhall. That seems to have been avoided. General Motors will still hold a 35 percent stake. Opel cars are very popular in the South African classifieds. The company has been in South Africa for years and an excellent network for Opel exists in the country. I’m sure that the Opel brand will remain in South Africa.

Related Link:
Opel – Official Website

German Auto Manufacturer, Mercedes Benz has unveiled the Mercedes Benz SLS AMG ahead of its public debut at this years Frankfurt Motor Show (less than a week from now). The car seems to be a revival of the Mercedes Benz 300 SL Gullwing. The Mercedes Benz SLS AMG is fitted with a front mid-mounted 6.3 litre V8 engine which is capable of an output of 563 hp. The car is fitted with a 7 speed dual-clutch transmission. The Mercedes Benz SLS AMG has a classic long hood and is fitted with wing doors that hinge upward from the car’s roof. The small passenger compartment of the vehicle is mounted just before the rear axle. The Mercedes Benz SLS AMG is expected to be new upgrade for the Mercedes Benz SLR. This sports car truly looks like it could be come the German Automaker’s flagship vehicle. The car was developed in conjunction with McLaren. The Mercedes Benz SLS AMG is capable of accelerating from 0 – 100 km/h in 3.8 sec and reaching a top speed of 312 km/h. Although the price range might be out of the general public’s reach. It’s highly possible that Mercedes Benz developed this vehicle to compete with Ferrari and other super car manufacturers. It’s also likely that there will be limited production for this vehicle, so obtaining one out of a classifieds publication is highly unlikely. Still, it’s still a real head turner, in my opinion.

The Porsche 911 Sport Classic has an intake manifold with 6 vacuum-controlled switching flaps. The car is capable of putting out 304 kW / 408 hp, is fitted with a 6 spd manual transmission, ceramic composite brakes and 19″ alloy wheels. The Porsche 911 Sport Classic also has aerodynamic aids. The car features a Sport Design front air dam with air inlets for the brakes, radiator and oil cooler. The car is also fitted with a rear spoiler that resembles the legendary 1973 Porsche Carrera RS 2.7. The car features a dashboard with a wide range of inserts and custom trim components. The Porsche 911 Sport Classic’s is fitted with an Espresso Nature natural leather interior.

This car will probably not be released in South Africa. For the dreamers out there, a scale model of the Porsche 911 Sport Classic will be made available to buy. Other Porsche enthusiasts will probably find second hand Porsche 911 cars easier in the classifieds publications around the world. This isn’t a car that anyone can afford. The price tag is said to be $266,000 (Over R1.4 million).

Related Link:
Toyota – Official Website

They’ve also given the following reasons:

• The word “Ford” means “to cross a river” and crossing a river is a sign of strength.
• President Gerald Ford is from Chris’ hometown.
• The Ford Motor Company didn’t accept any bail-out money from the US Government.
• “Henry Ford founded the Ford Motor Company with the idea that the common man should and would be able to afford his own car. The Ford Motor Company still works to achieve this goal today.” Maybe the fact that Ford lent them the Ford Fusion had something to do with this reason.
• Jaime’s father was once given a Mustang.
• Jaime’s first truck was a Ford Ranger.
• Jaime’s grandfather, Bud, loves driving around the entire USA in his Ford Ranger.
• Chris’s mother has an extensive history with Ford.

This is absolutely ridiculous. So let’s say I like driving around in a Fiat Uno, should I suddenly change my surname to Uno just because I like the car? It doesn’t make sense at all. Maybe I’ll do that if Fiat pays me 1 million dollars, then I’ll reconsider.

This truly is a classic car. Since the Sunbeam company or marque is non-existent collectors who own one of these cars will probably hold onto them for nostalgic or other reasons. You will not find one of these cars advertised in the classifieds. You will probably find some of them in a car museum though.

It’s unclear whether the German automaker, BMW, Mini’s parent company intends to put the Mini Coupe Concept into production. It’s also expected that this car will weigh at least 100 kg less than the Mini Hatch (most likely because the Mini Coupe Concept only has 2 front seats). It’s expected that the car should be able to reach 0 – 60 mph (100 km/h) in about 6 seconds. The Mini Coupe Concept was introduced in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of Alex Issigonis’ original Mini design. I’ve always been a fan of Mini. This car truly looks stylish. Since this is not available to the public yet, I should probably look for a 2nd hand Mini in the classifieds instead. Or maybe I’ll just twiddle my thumbs and admire this Mini Coupe Concept for a day or two.

There has been no mention in the South African media of this car. Lotus has a very small market share in South Africa so theres doubt about whether the Lotus Evora will be launced here. I’m sure that there are Lotus enthusiasts in South Africa, but apparently not enough of them. You could probably look in the classifieds for a 2nd hand Lotus since the Lotus Evora could set you back a few hundred thousand Rand.

Related Link:
Land Rover – Official Website

This truly is a classic car. The Lamborghini Countach has been used in various movies and television series over the years and is probably the best known Lamborghini car in history. Sports Car International ranked the Lamborghini Countach as #3 in a list of the top sports cars of the 1970s. It was also listed as #10 on the list for top sports cars of the 1980s. The prototype / concept for the Lamborghini Countach was first introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in 1971 as Project 112. Over the years the various Lamborghini Countach models were fitted with 3 different engines. All engines were V12s and varied between 4.0 litre and 5.2 litre. The Lamborghini Countach had 5 generations, the LP400, the LP400S, the LP500S, the LP5000QV and the 25th Anniversary edition. This car is definately one of my favorite sports cars. You’ll probably still pay a huge amount of money for the Lamborghini Countach (if you can find one). Otherwise you’ll probably find a kit car or replica in the classifieds, but that wouldn’t be the real thing though.

If you look at the Audi R-Zero’s design you’ll see that this concept car’s design definately was influenced by the Audi TT and the Bugatti Veyron. The car’s engine is cooled by making use of an airflow system. This also improves the aerodynamics of the Audi R-Zero. The car is only a concept. There has been no intension or announcement from Audi to indicate that they will be releasing a production model of the the Audio R-Zero. It’s still a very nice car to look at it. I wonder if I could find a replica model of this car in the classifieds. The chance is highly unlikely though and it might possibly be very pricey.

Related Link:
Audi – Official Website

Related Link:
Optimal Energy – Official Website

This is a very stylish looking car. No two ways about it. I doubt that this car will ever be transformed into a production car. And should this become a production vehicle its highly unlikely that it will make it to South Africa. I will keep my fingers crossed though. In the meanwhile I’ll look around in the classifieds for a 2nd hand vehicle instead. The VW Concept R probably will not be within my price range if its released here.

Face it, the Nissan LEAF is not a bad looking car. Call me old-fashioned, but I’m used to the idea of a normal fuel-driven car. The whole concept of the electric car still needs to be imprinted in this auto enthusiast’s mind. It will probably be a while before one can buy a like the Nissan LEAF in the classifieds. It probably will not be released in South Africa. The country has no infrastructure in place to support an electric car.

The VW Polo has become quite a popular vehicle in South Africa. It’s a possibility that many VW Polo owners will sell their vehicles via classifieds publications or other means in order to raise money to upgrade to the new VW Polo model in 2010. Whether the new VW Polo will be a success in South Africa still remains to be seen, but judging by Volkswagen’s previous successes in South Africa, it probably will be.

Related Link:
Volkswagen – Official Website

Maserati are well-known for their luxury cars around the world, they need no introduction.This cars seems to living up to expectations. After all, it’s a Maserati, not a car built in someone’s backyard. Pity I won’t be able to afford this, might have to look for a replica in the classifieds instead.

The Peugeot RCZ looks very stylish to me. The question is just what the price tag will be on this car and whether it will be available in South Africa or not. Still, this may be outside my price range for a vehicle. Peugeot has built up quite a huge fan base in South Africa, so I ‘m sure that if this vehicle is released here I would be able to find a cheap 2nd hand Peugeot RCZ in the classifieds in a few years.

Related Link:
Peugeot – Official Website

This truly is a very stylish looking vehicle. One can really admire concept cars. They either get built or they are an inspiration and motivation for designers and future designers alike. There can’t be many of these BMW Z9s in existence, so you’ll probably never find a 2nd hand Z9 to buy in the classifieds. Guess I’ll have to look for a cheaper vehicle, since BMW has a price tag way above my pricing range for a vehicle.

The Mazda 2 has become quite a popular car in country, South Africa. It seems to be a very popular vehicle with the young workforce. I’m sure that we’ll find tons of Mazda 2 vehicles advertised in classifieds publications over the next few years. This car is truly popular because of it’s stylish finishes and fuel economy. Definately a car I will consider when I decide to buy my first car.

Since the Nissan 370Z model has been released, Nissan 350Z owners may have tried to sell their vehicles to their neighbours or possibly via the classifieds to other buyers. If I owned a Nissan 350Z I would feel quite intimidated by the Nissan 370Z. It’s truly a symbol of stylishness and beauty on the road.

Many White & Red Plymouth Fury’s were used as stunt cars in Christine. Only 3 cars that were used in the movie remain, all owned by private owners. 1 in Florida, 1 in England and 1 in California. It will be hard to find a car like this in the classifieds, especially in South Africa.

If car manufacturers or entrepeneurs could find a cost-effective way of making a turbine engine it could change the face of cars and reduce the demand for oil worldwide. One can not buy the Chrysler Turbine car anywhere. A few of the old car’s engines are owned by a few private collectors and Chrysler themselves. I guess I’ll have to look around in the classifieds to find another car instead.

This is truly one of my favorite classic cars. There are not many of them in circulation now and then, so it will probably cost you an arm and a leg to get behind the steering wheel of a Jaguar XK 120, probably around $75,000 or even more. I guess I’ll have to look for another car in the classifieds instead, since that is way out of my price league. For now, I’m just going to do what I always do, take the bus to work and back.

Related Link:
Jaguar – Official Website

On the 26th August 1959 the Mini was introduced to the Public as the Austin Seven and Morris Mini Minor. All models had an 848cc engine and front and rear drum-brakes. The Deluxe versions had 3 instruments and opening quarterlight windows. In 1960 the Mini estate versions were released. The Countryman, Traveller, Van and Pick-up. The Mini Moke was brought to the public in the same year, even though it was originally developed for military use. In 1961 the first Mini Cooper, the 1071 S was introduced. With 997 Cooper was also introduced. The Cooper engine was a modified 848cc engine. The 1071 S engine was a complete new development though. The Mini 850 was the only Mini which did not have a remote gearbox. In 1964 3 new models were introduced by Mini. The 970 and 1275 Cooper S and 998 Cooper. The 1071S and 997 Coopers were discontinued. The 998 Cooper had a newly developed 1 Litre engine. The 1275 S was the next step in the Cooper S series. The 970 S was a pure racer built almost solely for the 1 Litre class with less than 1000 in total production between 1964 and 1965. The introduction of Hydrolastic suspension affected all models. In 1967 the Mini MKI was replaced by the Mini MKII. This meant bigger rear lights and a larger rear windscreen. In 1968 the Mini Moke MKI was discontinued. Later on the Mini Moke MK1 was licence-built by other countries. In 1969 the Mini Clubman was introduced. The last of the MKII 1275 Cooper S and 998 Coopers were also built in the same year. The Mini Cooper S engine was also discontinued. This engine was replaced by the Cooper S MKIII engine. The Mini 1275 Clubman GT engine only had 9 cylinder head bolts. The new 998cc engine only put out around 30 hp. Rubber-cone suspension was also reintroduced to all models. Mini models had 850cc and 998c engines. Mini Clubmans were fitted with 850cc, 998cc, 1098cc and 1275cc engines. In 1970 all Minis were introduced with the Mini Cooper concept of wind-up windows. Door-hinges were also moved out-of-sight. In the same year the Mini 1275 Cooper S MKIII was discontinued. The 998 Cooper engine was fitted onto the B38 MINI 1001. In 1972 the remote change gearboxes in Minis were replaced by rod-change gearboxes. In 1976 Mini front sub-frames were changed to rubber-mounted frames. The 1098cc engine was also introduced by Mini in the same year.

In 1981 the Mini Van, Pick-up, Clubman, 1275cc A-Series and 1098cc engine were discontinued. In the same year the A-Series A-Plus engine from the Metro was introduced to the MINI. In 1984 the last of 10″ wheel Mini left the factory. The Clubman 1275 GT’s 12″ suspension was introduced to all Minis. In 1986 Mini discontinued the 850cc engine. In 1990 the first Rover Mini Cooper 1275 was produced. In 1992 the first factory-built Mini injection engine was introduced in the Rover Cooper 1.3i. In 1993 Mini discontinued the 998cc engine. Two different 1.3i engine versions were used by Mini from then on. In 1996 introduced the latest 1275cc Mini. Modifications included a radiator moving in front of the engine, 2-point injection system, MGF-type steering wheel with airbag, reinforced doors and a seatbelt tensioning system. The oil filter was moved near the clutch housing. The last model was produced in 2001 by MG Rover.

BMW took over the Mini name in 2001. The New Mini made by the German auto maker is technically not related to the original Mini, but the New Mini retains the classic transverse 4-cylinder, front-wheel-drive configuration and iconic “bulldog” stance of the original. It’s not unusual to find the Mini advertised in classifieds publications or websites around the world. The car is immensly popular with vintage car entusiasts.